What is an enumerated power?

• A. A power expressly listed in the Constitution.
• B. A power reserved to the states.
• C. A power granted to the president alone.
• D. A power inferred from the Necessary and Proper Clause.

Answer: (A)

An enumerated power is a power expressly listed in the Constitution. These are the specific authorities granted to Congress and described in the text, such as collecting taxes, borrowing money, regulating interstate commerce, coining money, and declaring war. Because they are written out, they are literally enumerated—named one by one. This distinguishes them from implied powers, which come from the Necessary and Proper Clause, and from reserved powers, which belong to the states. It also sets them apart from executive or inherent powers that belong to the presidency.